As the sweltering summer approaches, our skin starts to change, crying out for concrete summer skincare. Is it not? Your skin needs more protection when it is exposed to extreme heat and humidity all day long, displaying everything from bothersome rashes to sunburns, sensitive itchy skin, and stubborn acne.
The oil secreted becomes trapped on the skin’s surface, causing stickiness, grease, and blocked pores. Also, the production of melanin rises when your skin is exposed to damaging UV rays, which results in darker, tanned skin.
Nonetheless, its time to step up your summer skincare regimen to avoid undesirable skin problems. Your skin physician Dr Shehla Ebrahim jotted down some helpful pointers that not only shield your skin against the scorching heat but also minimise the seasonal side effects.
Read on for a fool-proof summer skincare routine!
Wash your face properly
Washing your face up into your hairline is your first fool-proof tip, as the heat and increase in outdoor activities allows for sweat to accumulate in your hairline. This area is frequently forgotten, which can cause breakouts along the hairline or the edges of your face.
When this happens, it’s time to embrace super-effective products, like benzoyl peroxide, and washes with salicylic acid. A foaming or gel cleanser can certainly serve the purpose.
Level up your SPF game
Most skin care physicians concur that using effective UV protection is the most vital step in any skincare regimen year-round, but it is especially crucial in the summer when the days are quite long, and you will unavoidably spend more time in the sun.
SPF should be applied daily to exposed skin, which frequently includes the hands, ears, neck, chest, and face. Reapplying is essential every two hours, or sooner if you’re swimming or perspiring.
For the face specifically, apply one sunscreen strip to each of your index and middle fingers. This amount is what is the recommended daily amount advised for the face.
Use light moisturisers
Even though you perspire more in the summer, you still need to moisturise your skin. However, since seasonal dryness is less frequent in the summer, rich cream is not a necessity the way it is in the winter.
Opt for light moisturisers with hyaluronic acid instead. These moisturisers work well to keep you hydrated without leaving your skin feeling oily and heavy.
Consider including antioxidants in your summer skincare routine
Antioxidant serums do wonders for your skin’s hydration. In addition, they shield your skin from environmental harm, support collagen production, and scavenge free radicals to stop skin damage. Also, a good antioxidant serum should be a part of your summer skincare regimen.
Scrub and Exfoliate
At least twice a week, exfoliate your face to get rid of extra oil and dirt from your skin. Just keep in mind to use a scrub that is apt for your skin type. Make sure to exfoliate your neck and lips as well.
However, exfoliants can sometimes prove to be harsh on the skin, so ensure using gentle exfoliants and refrain from scrubbing hard.
Use non-comedogenic products
The summer months can bring on breakouts due to clogged pores.
Those with acne-prone and oily skin can include ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulphur, or niacinamide in their routines to help keep pores unclogged. These ingredients do not clog pores and have an anti-inflammatory bonus!
Use retinoids cautiously
In the summer, you shouldn’t stop using retinoid, but you may need to adjust how you use it. During the summer, people start becoming irritable with retinol/retinoid as your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight. If you would like to continue using retinol/ retinoid, make sure to use it at night, and to wash any residue off in the morning to limit sensitivity.
Skip heavy makeup
The skin can’t breathe when wearing a lot of makeup. The skin’s ability to breathe is also impacted by heat and humidity. If you choose to wear makeup, consider using a tinted lip balm and tinted moisturiser in place of heavy foundation and other cosmetics.
Switch to good toners
A quality toner may be useful for closing pores after cleansing. The T-zone of the face has the greatest density of sebaceous glands. Use a toner with an aloe vera or cucumber base to keep sweat and oil from clogging these pores.
Remember to include your eyes, lips, and feet in your summer skincare regime
Develop a habit of wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply an SPF lip balm under your lipstick and a moisturising under-eye gel to your lips. Scrub your feet to get rid of dead skin. Apply lotion and sunscreen to your feet as well, especially if you are wearing open-toed sandals.
| Bonus Tip!
Drink more water! A minimum of 2-3 litres of water per day should be consumed during the summer. Water consumption aids in the removal of toxins from the body. |
Looking for ardent skin treatment and more valuable tips on summer skincare?
Consult your skincare physician Dr Shehla Ebrahim
Taking proper care of your skin during the hot summer months is essential to maintaining a healthy and glowing complexion. Dr Shehla Ebrahim’s meticulous line of treatment and tips provide an excellent starting point, from using gentle cleansers to drinking enough water every day. With her advice in mind, you can enjoy beautiful skin all season long!
Book an appointment today!